Rebel Seed Capital has announced a strategic investment in Shoptreo, a fast-rising digital commerce startup empowering artisans and micro-entrepreneurs to digitize their operations and access wider markets. The funding was made through the firm’s Edge Fund, which targets early-stage founders in Africa’s secondary cities with investment tickets between $10,000 and $50,000.
Shoptreo is unlocking economic value across informal markets and underserved production hubs like the Aba Artisanal Leather Cluster—one of Africa’s largest centers for handcrafted leather goods. The startup equips artisans with digital storefronts, integrated logistics, payments, and inventory tools to improve operational efficiency and scale to meet global demand. It also provides inventory financing to trusted distributors and bulk buyers, helping them overcome cash flow barriers and fulfill large orders.
By merging fintech innovation with grassroots manufacturing, Shoptreo is helping shape the future of African commerce.
Speaking on the investment, Rebel Seed Capital’s Managing Partner said the Aba Artisanal Leather Cluster presents immense potential for prosperity if properly digitized. He described the Shoptreo team as hungry, driven, and well-positioned to succeed.
Shoptreo’s CEO said the investment aligns with the startup’s mission to drive value in overlooked segments and will power its expansion, particularly in onboarding new artisans and taking Aba-made leather products global.
The startup plans to scale its technology offerings, deepen integration with logistics and financial service partners, and expand inventory financing for distributors. This move aims to boost liquidity and unlock faster growth across Africa’s informal manufacturing sector.
Rebel Seed Capital is a pre-seed venture firm investing in bold founders tackling urgent problems in Africa’s secondary cities. Through its Edge Fund, it backs early-stage startups with ticket sizes ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
Shoptreo is a commerce enablement platform that helps artisans and micro-businesses digitize sales, manage inventory, process payments, and fulfill local and global orders. It also offers strategic inventory financing to trusted buyers—bridging Africa’s informal markets with the digital economy through technology and inclusive financial services.
